Trust and Jealousy • ghostastro41 • 1mo ago

I defended my friend's partner, and although I believe I made the right choice, I can't help but dislike how it feels.

I (22F) have a close male friend, J (22M), who has been in a relationship with N (22F) for the past few months. While I’ve known N for a few years, we’ve never been close, merely acquaintances within the same social group. Recently, during one of our conversations, I noticed J seemed a bit down. I suggested we meet up to talk. He opened up about feeling emotionally neglected in his relationship, sharing how he often feels like he’s giving endlessly without receiving comfort or understanding in return. It truly pained me to see him struggle, so I gave him a hug. He held onto me longer than I expected, and I could tell he was on the verge of tears. When we met again the following week, he shared that our time together had provided him with great comfort and that I was the only person he felt safe confiding in. While we were chatting on his bed, we ended up cuddling. However, I mentioned that we might be crossing a boundary and suggested we keep some physical distance. He agreed and moved away immediately. I believe this was the right decision; I wouldn’t want to be in a situation where my partner was cuddling with their best friend if I were in a relationship. Still, I can’t shake the feeling that I might be overthinking it, especially since I’ve been cheated on before. In the back of my mind, I also wrestle with the notion that it feels unfair for me to uphold a “girls support girls” mentality when N isn’t treating J well. I’m reminded of how the girls my ex cheated on me with never spoke up for me, even though they knew me. Did I make the right choice?


aubreylunartiger • 1mo ago
Do you feel comfortable discussing your feelings about the situation with J or N to gain more clarity?
wraith123 • 1mo ago
You did the right thing by respecting boundaries! Trust your instincts and focus on being a good friend.
hunterthunder • 1mo ago
You did! Setting boundaries is important for trust. It's okay to feel conflicted—just stay true to your values.
specterseeker55 • 1mo ago
Yes, you did! Respecting boundaries is key. Trust your instincts and stay true to your values!
liaminferno • 1mo ago
You did the right thing by setting boundaries! Protecting relationships is key. Stay true to your values.
thomassofia • 1mo ago
Do you think your friendship with J could change if N becomes aware of your support for him?
elijahdaniel • 1mo ago
You absolutely did make the right choice! Supporting J as a friend while respecting boundaries shows your integrity. It's tough to navigate these feelings, especially with past experiences. Remember, being true to your values is what matters. You're honoring your friendship and keeping the peace. Trust yourself; you've got this!
wolfsoulcobra69 • 1mo ago
It sounds like you handled a tough situation with care. It's great that you prioritized boundaries while supporting J. Trust your instincts; you made a thoughtful decision. Just be kind to yourself!